U.S. Republican congressmen said on Monday the arms sales to Taiwan will soon go through. Taiwan’s National Defense Ministry said Tuesday that they are optimistic about the outcome.
There were reports in November about a potential US-to-Taiwan arms sale that is worth 1 billion US$. The US said the sale is based on the Taiwan Relations Act which dictates the US can assist Taiwan in its effort to maintain national and regional peace.
Two Republican congressmen said on Monday that the Obama administration could approve the sale of Perry-class frigates within the week despite opposition from China.
Taiwan’s National Defense spokesperson David Lo said there is no confirmation on the sale, but they are optimistic that it will go through.
“So far, we have not received any official confirmation from the US. It is in America’s best interest if they follow the six promises in the Taiwan Relations Act and continue to support us by selling us weapons," said Lo. "More importantly, it will boost Taiwan’s national defense capabilities and help our efforts in maintaining regional peace. We are optimistic that the arms sale will go through.”
The US Department of Defense has informed the Congress about the Perry-class frigates sale and completed all related paperwork. Taiwan’s military staff is awaiting orders to take over the frigates once Congress approves the sale.